Netflix fires up sexier recommendations for Android

Netflix has made it even easier to find what you want to watch on Android devices thanks to a new grid-based layout.

Mirroring what’s happened to the main Netflix redesign, the new-look Netflix for Android app literally places the cover art at your fingertips. Swiping through the list will let you add results to your ‘My List’ playlist, start watching a show or beam it to your TV using Chromecast or AirPlay.

The new visual search on smartphones and tablets makes it easier to find content

The app update will let iPhone users to search for content by actor, director or creator and will present results related to the search term rather than only exact matches.

Roelof van Zwol, director of product innovation for search and personalisation at Netflix and Chris Jaffe is vice president of UI innovation at Netflix said in a blog post: “Search is a key feature on mobile and tablet devices and many of our members use search to program their evening entertainment while on the go.”

The previous search function on mobile and tablet wasn’t particularly finger-friendly, with thumbnails only displaying in search results. Now, from the moment you fire up Netflix, you’ll be greeted with a library of colourful icons.

You’ll also able to manage your multiple Netflix profiles direct from the app, allowing you to mark certain accounts as child friendly for example, to stop profiles used by kids accessing unsuitable content.

The new interface has already been rolled out on game consoles, smart TVs and the Netflix website, meaning relevant content will start to pop up as soon as you start typing the first few letters.